OPERA America draws on resources and expertise from within and beyond the opera field to advance a mutually beneficial agenda that serves and strengthens the field through programs in the following categories:

Creation: Artistic services that help artists and companies increase the creativity and excellence of opera productions, especially North American works;

Presentation: Opera company services that address the specific needs of staff, trustees and volunteers;

Enjoyment: Education, audience development and community services that increase all forms of opera appreciation.

New York City is home to the nation’s largest concentration of performing and creative artists, professional training institutions and music businesses. A majority of OPERA America’s Professional Company Members hold or attend auditions in New York City annually, and opera leaders from Europe and around the world are regular visitors.

In response to the pressing need for appropriate space in New York by members who suffered from the lack of good audition and work facilities in the city, OPERA America created the National Opera Center. The Opera Center serves many functions that support the artistic and economic vitality of the field by providing its constituents with a range and level of services never before possible.

OPERA America serves members across the entire opera field through research, publications and services in support of the creation, performance and enjoyment of opera. Our work is only possible with the generous support of donors dedicated to the future of opera in America.

The National Opera Center’s Ardis Krainik Research and Reference Library and Baisley Powell Elebash Score and Recording Library provide OPERA America members and the public with access to books, audio recordings, scores and historically significant documents in order to inspire excellence in artistic and scholarly endeavors. The libraries are go-to destinations for research about the global history of opera and particularly the contributions of North American opera companies and artists. To search the libraries’ collections, visit the online catalog at operaamerica.org/LibraryCatalog.

Access
The Ardis Krainik Research and Reference Library and Baisley Powell Elebash Score and Recording Library are available Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Please visit the reception desk on the 7th Floor of the Opera Center to access these collections.

Access to the libraries outside of regular hours is by appointment only. To make an appointment please contact:

If you plan to visit the libraries during regular hours but would like materials to be pulled in advance of your arrival, you may also make an appointment.

Photocopies
We are unable to provide photocopies of scores, books or any other printed materials.

Donations
Interested in making a donation to the libraries? Donations of audio recordings and scores may be directed to Alex Ganes. Donations of books may be directed to Nick Wise. Please send a list of the items you would like to donate.

To have your company’s photos included in the header rotation, send photos that are at least 1200px wide and 550px tall to Webmaster@operaamerica.org. Please note that submission of photos does not guarantee inclusion.

All OPERA America facilities are handicapped accessible. The National Opera Center features ground-level entry with elevators to the venue. All spaces are wheelchair accessible, and modular seating can be arranged to accommodate wheelchair users for all programs and performances. Handicapped accessible restrooms are available on all floors.